Many clients are worried about their pets undergoing surgery and general anaesthesia, although this is a daily occurrence for all our vets we hope to provide you with all the information about the procedure and what will happen to your pet during the anaesthetic.

The majority of surgical procedures are performed in a sterile theatre with gloves, gowns, hats and masks. Our nursing team are trained to deal with the different aspects of care during anaesthesia from induction right through to recovery.

Operations are performed Monday to Friday. Patients are usually admitted between 8.30am to 9.30am with procedures taking place throughout the day. Depending on the type of surgery, your pet will be able to come home the same day, normally between 3pm and 6.20pm.

At your discharge appointment, one of our team will discuss with you how to care for your pet after an operation and arrange post operative appointments where necessary.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

General Anaesthetic methods have been developed to achieve the safest conditions for your pet to undergo surgery. One of our veterinary surgeons will discuss the procedure with you and discuss any anxieties you may have about the procedure. The veterinary surgeon will ask you a few questions relating to your pet’s general health, when the last food and water was taken and will also ask you to sign a consent form for the procedure.

Pre-anaesthetic blood testing checks the function of the liver and kidneys. It also counts the red and white blood cells and gives an overall general health picture of your pet. Owners with cats and dogs, having a general anaesthetic, will be offered the option of having a pre-anaesthetic blood test. This is usually taken on the morning of the procedure, after the vet has admitted your pet.

The results are examined before the procedure takes place. The vast majority of fit and healthy animals display normal test results. In some cases test results can indicate underlying health issues. This is not unusual for older pets. In these cases a vet will discuss the results with you before proceeding with an anaesthetic.

In many cases the recommendation is to administer a saline drip for the duration of the procedure and recovery phase. This helps to support blood circulation to the liver and kidneys during the procedure.

Any recommended treatment will be discussed with you before proceeding with an anaesthetic.

Additional charges are made for these services.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS?

In general anaesthesia, adverse reactions are rare. Before any anaesthetic procedure takes place your pet will have a full health examination and where appropriate, a pre-anaesthetic blood test.

In fit and healthy animals the risks are minimal. The very young, the very old and sick animals have a slightly greater risk.

Each anaesthetic patient will be assessed according to their health and circumstances. You will be advised throughout and allowed to make informed decisions about your pet’s treatment. We will discuss any anxieties you may have at each stage and before any procedure takes place.

ON THE DAY, YOUR CHECK LIST:

- Please withhold food from 8pm the night before the general anaesthetic.
- Ensure water is available at all times.
- Keep cats in overnight prior to an anaesthetic and provide a litter tray.
- Please ensure your dog has been allowed to urinate and defaecate before admission.
- Please inform the vet, at admission, of any special dietary requirements or medication required by your pet.

PLEASE NOTE

Ensure you are contactable throughout the day of the procedure. The vet will confirm a contact number with you at admission.

All fees are payable at the time of collection.